Exacerbate vs. Acerbate — What's the Difference?

Exacerbate is commonly used to describe the act of making a bad situation or problem worse, typically in the context of something tangible or practical. For instance, ignoring health advice can exacerbate an existing medical condition. On the other hand, acerbate is less commonly used and generally pertains to causing someone to feel bitter or harsh, often referring to emotional or psychological states. For example, constant criticism might acerbate a person's feelings towards a critic.

While exacerbate is primarily concerned with the escalation of problems, issues, or conditions, making them more severe or intense, acerbate deals with the souring of moods, attitudes, or feelings, imparting a more personal and emotional connotation. The weather conditions can exacerbate symptoms of an illness, whereas an unfair judgment can acerbate feelings of resentment.

Exacerbate has a broader application in various fields such as medicine, environmental science, and social issues, highlighting its versatility in usage. Acerbate, in contrast, is more specific to emotional responses and interpersonal relationships, showcasing its niche application.

In terms of linguistic preference, exacerbate is more frequently used in both spoken and written English, which may be attributed to its applicability across a wide range of contexts. Acerbate, while equally valid, is less common and often reserved for more formal or literary contexts, emphasizing a particular kind of emotional or psychological effect.

Both terms, though differing in their primary applications, underscore the negative progression or transformation of states, be it physical, environmental, social, or emotional. However, the choice between exacerbate and acerbate depends largely on the context and the nature of the worsening condition or feeling being described.